Football Receiver Routes

The American football route tree is a system of passing routes that wide receivers and other pass-catchers run during a play to get open for a pass from the quarterback. The tree is essentially a standardized way of describing the different routes receivers can run on the field. It's often broken down into numbered routes, with each number representing a different direction and distance from the line of scrimmage.

The route tree is typically organized in a way that helps quarterbacks and receivers communicate more efficiently. The routes are generally categorized by their direction (straight, curved, angled) and the number associated with each route gives an idea of the distance and angle of the route.

Breakdown of the Standard Route Tree:

1. The Numbering System:
   • The route tree is typically broken down into numbers from 0 to 9, with each number representing a different type of route.
   • The "1" route is the shortest, and the higher the number, the longer and more complex the route typically becomes.

0. Hitch (0)

• Route Description: A sharp cut toward the middle of the field after running a set distance (typically 4 to 6 yards).
• Distance: 4-6 yards.
• Usage: Often used for quick passes or as a timing route. It’s common on third downs or when you need a quick yardage gain

1. Flat (1)

• Route Description: A quick, horizontal route run towards the sideline, often at or near the line of scrimmage.
• Distance: Usually 1 to 5 yards.
• Usage: This is often used as a quick outlet for the quarterback. It can be useful against zone coverage or to create a quick mismatch in space.

2. Slant (2)

• Route Description: The receiver takes a few steps vertically and then makes a quick, sharp cut at a 45-degree angle toward the center of the field.
• Distance: 1-3 yards.
• Usage: A quick-hitting route often used to gain yards after the catch. It’s a very popular route for short-to-intermediate gains and is effective against man coverage.

3. Comeback (3)

• Route Description: The receiver runs 10 to 12 yards downfield before making a sharp cut to the sideline.
• Distance: 10-15 yards.
• Usage: Common in intermediate passing situations. This route is good against man or zone coverage.

4. Curl/Hook (4)

• Route Description: The receiver runs 8 to 12 yards downfield before making a sharp cut in towards the ball and quarterback.
• Distance: 10-15 yards.
• Usage: Common in intermediate passing situations. This route is good against man or zone coverage.

5. Quick Out (5)

• Route Description: A quick, sharp cut towards the sideline, generally 5 to 8 yards from the line of scrimmage.
• Distance: 5-8 yards.
• Usage: Often used for quick passes or as a timing route. It’s common on third downs or when you need a quick yardage gain.

6. Dig (Deep In) (6)

• Route Description: The receiver runs a deep in route, typically 10-20 yards, before cutting across the field at a sharp angle toward the middle.
• Distance: 10-20 yards.
• Usage: This is a versatile route used to gain significant yardage over the middle of the field. It requires precise timing between the quarterback and receiver.

7. Corner (7)

• Route Description: A vertical route where the receiver runs straight downfield for 8-15 yards and then makes a sharp turn toward the sideline at a 45-degree angle.
• Distance: 8-15 yards.
• Usage: A route designed to exploit the deep, outside areas of the field. It is often used for throws that travel toward the corner of the end zone.

8. Post (8)

• Route Description: The receiver runs vertically for about 8-15 yards and then cuts towards the middle of the field at an angle (typically around 45 degrees).
• Distance: 8-15 yards.
• Usage: Often used for deeper throws and is one of the classic routes for attacking the middle of the field. Frequently used in the red zone or on deep passing plays.

9. Fly, Go, Fade (9)

• Route Description: The receiver runs straight down the field, aiming to outrun the defensive back. There are no cuts, just pure speed.
• Distance: 15+ yards.
• Usage: This route is often used for deep throws or as a vertical stretch against a defense. It is used in situations where the receiver is trying to get behind the defense, typically with a deep ball.

Other Variations & Routes:

• Wheel Route: A variation of the flat or out route, typically run by running backs or tight ends, where the receiver initially runs towards the sideline (out or flat) and then turns upfield to run a deep route, typically down the sideline.
• Seam Route: Often run by tight ends or slot receivers, this route is a straight-line route down the middle of the field, typically between the safeties, aiming for a soft spot in the defense.
• Post-Corner: A combination of a post and corner route where the receiver runs a post for 10 yards, then cuts to the outside corner.
• Screens: Designed to be quick hitting routes where a receiver is thrown the ball almost immediately after the snap. These are often one step or 'stand-up' routes, where the catcher will be provided with blockers once they have the ball in their hands.

Understanding Route Types:

• Vertical Routes: These routes involve the receiver running straight down the field (e.g., Fly, Post, Corner, Go routes).
• Horizontal Routes: These routes move from sideline to sideline, usually at or near the line of scrimmage (e.g., Out, Slant, Flat).
• Dig and Crossers: These routes involve deep cuts across the field, typically from one side to the other (e.g., Dig, Crossing Routes).

Key Principles for a Route Tree:

• Timing: Quarterbacks and receivers need to be on the same page in terms of timing. Route depth, cut angles, and the understanding of the coverage scheme all play a role in this.
• Separation: A good route runner is adept at creating separation from the defender through sharp cuts, leverage, and speed.
• Defensive Strategy: Routes are designed to exploit weaknesses in the defense, such as soft spots in zone coverage or mismatches in man coverage.

The route tree serves as a foundational aspect of an offensive playbook, and understanding its structure helps quarterbacks, receivers, and coaches develop effective passing attacks. Each route's purpose is to create space, confuse the defense, and give the quarterback a reliable target.